Nathan Eakins

Nathan O. "Nate" Eakins, 80, passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, in Jonesboro. Nate was born in Gas City, on October 1, 1944, to the late Charles and Beulah (Garner) Eakins.

He was a devoted family man known for his steadfast determination, generosity, and a unique sense of humor that brought joy to those around him.

Nate attended Mississinewa Schools and served honorably in the United States Army. Nate dedicated many years of service to Dana Corporation, where he worked as a machinist until his retirement. After retiring, he became part-owner and operator of Twin City Sewer, with his brother Bill. Nate also worked at Fairmount Grain Company.

A passionate collector, Nate had a particular fondness for vintage cars, knives, watches, clocks, and antiques. His time was often spent exploring flea markets, yard sales, and auctions in search of hidden treasures. An industrious spirit, he was always engaged in projects and enjoyed playing the harmonica in his leisure time. He cherished his beloved 1937 Dodge Coupe, which was a testament to his love for classic automobiles.

Nate's legacy is forged in the love he had for his family, friends, dog Chloe, and his chickens. Though he was known for his stubbornness and tough exterior, those who knew him understood his generous nature; he would willingly give anyone in need the shirt off his back. His warmth and humor will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his companion, Diana Miller, Fairmount; sister-in-law, Rosalie Eakins; children, Laurie (Wayne Bennett) Eakins, Seward, AK; Maryann Riddle, Jonesboro; Yvonne VanDine, FL; Jamie Barry, Fairmount; Rachael (David) Earhart, Maynardville, TN; James Richard Reece, Marion; siblings, Georgianna Pearson, Gas City; Diane (Brian) Fields, Marion; and Steve (Helen) Eakins, Gas City; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Nate was preceded in death by his second wife, Edna (Lemons) Eakins; parents, Charles and Beulah (Garner) Eakins; siblings, Onnie Derossett, Delbert Eakins, Bill Eakins, Margaret Walser, Marjorie Mills, and Mike Eakins.

Arrangements for Nate were entrusted to the Mississinewa Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 200 North 7th Street, Gas City, Indiana 46933, where on Monday, September 8, 2025, there will be a visitation held from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., then on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, there will be a funeral at 11:00 A.M., with an hour of visitation before the funeral service. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery, Gas City. After the services the family will be having a dinner at Hontz Hall, 307 W. South H Street, Gas City, 46933, to gather and reminisce with family and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Nate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Memories and condolences may be made at www.armeshuntfuneralhome.com.